// PC GAMER — GAMING
Cooler Master HAF II 500 review
The Cooler Master HAF II 500 delivers high airflow from two massive fans. That's the main draw here. Other than that, it's an easy case to build into with plenty of room for just about any size or type of cooler you might desire. It's just on the pricier side.
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I first spotted the HAF II 500 at Cooler Master's HQ in Taiwan. It wasn't the case that first caught my eye then, it was the massive fan on a stand in front of it. A spinning goliath measuring a mighty 220 mm, of which there are not one, but two stuffed in the front of the HAF II 500.
If you want more airflow over your core components—you got it. The HAF II is more wind tunnel than computer chassis. Those large fans drive an immense amount of airflow over the motherboard, GPU, VRM and anything else caught in their backdraft. It reminds me of the Havn BF 360 in many ways—another PC case that focuses on airflow, albeit with 180 mm fans—right down to the scoop in the front to keep cool air flowing towards the graphics card. They're similarly wide, too.
The HAF II 500 is not just a big beast. It's got the brawn and the brains. There's a space-saving fan hub smartly integrated into the rear of the case, alongside ample cable management options. The front includes a couple ways to keep your build looking tidy, too, including a dual-GPU support bracket and sliding cable management cover.
At $200/£250, these fans and extra features come at a high cost. That's one of few points against this case, but it's a big one. It's a prime choice for anyone worried about overheating components, but for most, a more affordable PC case will suffice nearly as well.
✅ You want all the airflow: This thing is mighty for airflow, courtesy of three Mighty40 fans. Two 220 mm in the front, one 180 mm in the back.
❌ You want something more exciting: Beyond the fans, this is a pretty traditional case with a pretty traditional layout. It's not oozing wow factor compared to some.
The Cooler Master HAF II 500 delivers high airflow from two massive fans. That's the main draw here. Other than that, it's an easy case to build into with plenty of room for just about any size or type of cooler you might desire. It's just on the pricier side.
Top: Up to 360 mm / Front (with MasterRail and no fans) Up to 360 mm